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Phillies' All-Stars enjoy visit with Obama

Phils' All-Stars enjoy visit with Obama

ST. LOUIS -- Most players offered President Barack Obama a hello and a handshake before the All-Star Game on Tuesday at Busch Stadium.

Shane Victorino offered him macadamia nuts.

And macadamia chocolate.

Oh, and specially made Nike trainers with the No. 44 on them because Obama is the 44th President of the United States.

"We're from Hawaii," Victorino explained.

Victoriono had met Obama at the White House in May, when he celebrated the Phillies' second World Series championship in franchise history. Obama acknowledged Victorino during his speech that afternoon because both grew up in Hawaii.

Obama would mention Victorino again on national TV.

That is because when Victorino's parents flew in from Hawaii for the All-Star Game, they brought their son goodies from home.

"I think President Obama is coming in today," Victorino told his parents.

"Why don't you give some of this to him?" they told their son.

So he did.

"It was a nice thing to be able to give the President a taste of home," Victorino said. "It was nice to see him again."

"Meeting Obama seems to be old hat these days," Werth joked. "I've met him twice now. The whole thing was just unbelievable. Obama. The Secret Service not letting us go down the tunnel before the game. The whole experience. It was fun. I'd love to do it again."

Raul Ibanez, who was not a member of last year's World Series championship team, had not met Obama previously. Ibanez found himself a little star struck when he did.

"It was a really cool experience," Ibanez said.

So what did he say?

"I don't remember. It's such a blur. I don't remember what I said," Ibanez said. "It really got quiet in here when he got here. When he walked into the room you knew somebody special was in the room. I think I said, 'Nice to meet you, Mr. President.' I don't remember what he said."

Todd Zolecki is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.